Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 08/2014

Morocco's Vital Role in Northwest Africa's Security and Development

J. Peter Pham

November 2013

Atlantic Council

Abstract

In the Africa Center’s most recent issue brief, “Morocco’s Vital Role in Northwest Africa's Security and Development,” Director J. Peter Pham outlines the country’s increasing reengagement with Africa and its emergence as a key political, security, and economic actor integral to the continent’s future. He argues that Morocco’s willingness to shoulder the challenges in the Maghreb and the Sahel makes it an important strategic partner for the United States.

The publication comes as the White House announced last week that President Barack Obama will host King Mohammed VI on November 22. According to the statement from the White House: “This visit will highlight the long-standing friendship between the United States and Morocco and strengthen our strategic partnership: "This visit is also an opportunity to increase our cooperation on addressing regional challenges, including countering violent extremism, supporting democratic transitions, and promoting economic development in the Middle East and Africa.”